Ethics Code Comparison
The similarity of these codes is that they both urge engineers to be honest. Both specify the need to ethically perform services for each client. Both documents state that for engineers, safety should be a top priority in the performance of their duties. The difference is that the NSPE code does not specify the need not to infringe on the intellectual property rights of others (2019). In turn, the ASME document does not state the personal responsibility of engineers for their professional activities (2012). In addition, a significant difference is that the NSPE does not imply for engineers the need to continuously improve their skills and knowledge. The most impressive phrase in the ASME code was that “engineers shall perform services only in the areas of their competence” (2012, p. 1). Indeed, because of the excitement of money, many workers can begin to take on projects in which they are not experts. The NSPE code emphasizes the phrase: “engineers shall at all times strive to serve the public interest” (2019, p. 1). Again, when engineers become driven by profit rather than helping the society, such trends need to be controlled.
The Role of Standards in Identifying Appropriate Ethical Behavior
Establishing standards of ethical behavior reinforces the company’s commitment to meeting all obligations, including those to customers, suppliers, and communities. The very firm they work for becomes a source of a sense of responsibility for employees. Adopted codes serve as a valuable source of guidance; they demonstrate the company’s values (Hayes, 2021). They also make it less likely that employee behavior will violate the law in any way (Indeed, 2021). In enshrining standards of ethical behavior in firms, there is a tendency to create a dynamic work environment that values employees’ respect for one another.
References
American Society of Mechanical Engineers. (2012). Code of ethics of engineers. Web.
Hayes, A. (2021). Code of ethics. Investopedia. Web.
Indeed. (2021). Professional code of ethics: Definition and examples. Web.
National Society of Professional Engineers. (2019). Code of ethics for engineers. Web.